Shelley Meyer Chat Transcript

Shelley Meyer, the First Lady of Gator Football and wife of Coach Urban Meyer, joined hundreds of Gator fans in our Gator Country chat room Wednesday night and it was quite entertaining. Here’s our chat transcript in case you missed out on the fun!

Many thanks to Shelley Meyer for taking time out of her busy day to join us…

Franz Beard (Oct 25, 2006 8:27:39 PM)

First question … Shelley, you saw Charlie Weiss’s comments about the Gators eating cheeseburgers last weekend … did Urban do the grilling or did he just eat burgers?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:28:12 PM)

Uh…it was actually Mexican day at the Meyer’s. We had tacos!

GATORooski (Oct 25, 2006 8:28:44 PM)

Shelley, since this will be your 2nd FL/GA game…how does it compare to what you have experienced thus far in terms of tradition and excitement?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:29:46 PM)

Well, I have discovered that there are SO many traditions around several games and they are all unique and hugely exciting. I would have to say this is one of the greatest atmospheres I have ever been apart of and am really excited for it to be here again!

desert gators (Oct 25, 2006 8:30:17 PM)

Hello Mrs. Coach Meyer…can you tell us about your cheerleading stint on ESPN Game Day?

IAQGator (Oct 25, 2006 8:31:07 PM)

How is Coach at home after a loss?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:31:14 PM)

I knew SOMEONE would bring that up! Did you see me shaking??? That was the scardest I have ever been. My hat is off to those boys who were holding me up. I’m probably the oldest person they ever had do a stunt with them!

SnoopOrmyOrm (Oct 25, 2006 8:31:20 PM)

During the week, during the season, what are the work hours Urban puts in? In other words, when does he normally leave and get back?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:32:13 PM)

You don’t want to see him. Sometimes I ask if I can spend the night somewhere else. No, it’s really sad and I feel helpless. He takes it ALL on himself. My psych nursing skills are best used on this horrible night. I don’t want any more nights like that in 2006.

SnoopOrmyOrm (Oct 25, 2006 8:33:08 PM)

During the week, during the season, what are the work hours Urban puts in? In other words, when does he normally leave and get back?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:33:16 PM)

He leaves at 6:35a and gets home at 11p, 10p, somewhere in there. Thurs is family night. We eat dinner with the players after practice. Urban does the radio show and then gets home about 8:15. He spends time with the kids and we watch college football of course!

Johnagator (Oct 25, 2006 8:33:29 PM)

Shelley; Did Coach get Bama Breeze by Jimmy Buffett, and how does he like it?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:34:11 PM)

Yes! Someone handed it to me on the field after we BEAT LSU and he loves it!!! He is a Jimmy Buffet nut and you all know that by now. I really appreciate whoever gave that cd to us.

GATOR SEAN fernandina beach FL (Oct 25, 2006 8:34:18 PM)

How long do you plan on staying in Gainesville? Is Urban Willing to stay till he wrinkles like some coaches? I HOPE SO.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:35:07 PM)

He is already grayer than he was a year ago…we are here for a LONG, LONG time. I am not moving anymore. I know, never say never, but I am not moving. Love it here!!!!

trume3 (Oct 25, 2006 8:35:08 PM)

After being at Florida for almost two years do you think the program is where you and Coach Meyer thought it would be?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:37:03 PM)

Well, we aren’t where we think we should be – totally! I mean, we have only had 2 recruiting classes and the first one was a hurry job since we just got there. I think we are ahead of where I thought we’d be, tho. I mean, going 6-0 was amazing. I definitely didn’t know we would be there. Still. work to be done, no doubt. We haven’t won the SEC or Nat’l Championship yet.

IAQGator (Oct 25, 2006 8:37:04 PM)

What is your relationship like with the players? Are you close to any of them? Any guys that have earned a special place in your heart?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:38:46 PM)

I am VERY close to several players. Family night is Thurs. and we spend a good deal of time over at practice and at dinner. I travel with them to away games and talk to them on the trip. Occasionally, if a player has a problem or issue he needs help with, I’ll spend time with him to help work thru it. I love being the team mommy. I love these guys. I can’t pick just one! It’s like when you have your own kids; you love them all, can’t say you love any one of them more than the other. There are players I know better than others.

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 8:39:01 PM)

Shelley, thanks for joining us tonight! Is there any difference in coaching philosophy between Utah and Florida with the staff?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:40:36 PM)

No. I think most of you know Urban by now and that he is CONSISTENT. He is one of the most consistent people I know. He has a great coaching regime and he sticks to it and it has worked at 3 places. Now, we have had some different cultures we had to get used to and treat accordingly; ie, polynesians at Utah and a team with a lot of Mormon players who were married with kids; sometimes more than 1 kid!

Arkansas Gator (Oct 25, 2006 8:40:39 PM)

Do recruits call Coach Meyer often at home? Is Coach ever able to just turn off his cell and relax? I love his intensity, but worry about it too…

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:41:36 PM)

Ahhh…the cell phone. No, he doesn’t turn it off and yes recruits call and TEXT all the time! Even in the middle of the night. The only time he is away from the cell phone is if we are on a cruise or an island where it doesn’t work. I’m not exaggerating that either.

gatorinroswell (Oct 25, 2006 8:41:44 PM)

Shelley…..could you describe how you two met and how the relationship grew?

legarto (Oct 25, 2006 8:42:47 PM)

Is there a citizen of the world palyer on the football team, like Noah on the basketball team?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:42:52 PM)

We met in college; MAy of 1984. I was a frosh. We met at Sigma Chi Derby Days. I am telling you it was the old cliche – love at first site. No lie. We have been together since then with just a couple of waves in the relationship (you know; immature stuff).

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:43:58 PM)

That’s a hard question. It’s different in football because there are SO MANY players and important components to the team. Chris Leak is definitely an icon and is the leader of the team. We have such a great freshman class, I have to believe there will be some leaders out of that.

chaz (Oct 25, 2006 8:44:08 PM)

How does a loss affect Coach Meyer behind closed doors?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:45:16 PM)

Did you see the earlier question related to this? It ‘s the worst nightmare for him because he blames himself totally. He doesn’t sleep right until he fixes the problems that caused the loss. He and Timmy Tebow are VERY similar in this; both HATE to lose. Will do whatever to win.

capgator (Oct 25, 2006 8:45:34 PM)

how many jimmy buffett concerts have the two of you attended?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:46:23 PM)

About 10 or maybe 12. We really try to go every year. You’d think with us in Fla. it would be easier, but his (Urb’s) and Jimmy’s schedules don’t match very well. We have seen him in Cincy, Indy, Denver…

spinnaka (Oct 25, 2006 8:46:26 PM)

Mrs. Meyer- Coach seems to be so family oriented… do you ever talk to the parents of recruits or do you have any role when it comes to recruiting and assisting in the parent to know their child is gonna be in good hands with what seems to be a fartherly figure as a coach instituting the “family” atmosphere

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:47:42 PM)

Oh, our coaches’ wives are VERY involved in recruiting. All the way! All season, we meet the parents and recruits in the Gator Room before games, dinner after. Dec, and Jan. we have dinners Fri and Sat. nights and breakfasts, also. The parents WANT to see us and meet us. I would say we play a huge role in recruiting when they come to our campus.

IAQGator (Oct 25, 2006 8:47:48 PM)

Why, in your opinion, did Timmy Tebow choose Florida?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:49:00 PM)

Well, STRONG family background of course. I really think he and Urban developed a very special relationship during recruiting. Urban and his parents seem very close also. It sure helped that he was practically raised a Gator. In the end, I just think he was meant to be here and it was a huge plus that he thinks so much of Urban and this staff.

J’ville Gator (Oct 25, 2006 8:49:04 PM)

Tell us about Wondy – He’s quickly becoming a Gator fan favorite.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:50:04 PM)

He’s so cute, isn’t he???? He smiles more than any player!!!! he’s just so happy to be here and have this wonderful “family” around him. I haven’t gotten to know him like I plan to, but sure love his commitment to this team. He’s a great player and will be a huge asset to this team.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:50:10 PM)

Oh, our coaches’ wives are VERY involved in recruiting. All the way! All season, we meet the parents and recruits in the Gator Room before games, dinner after. Dec, and Jan. we have dinners Fri and Sat. nights and breakfasts, also. The parents WANT to see us and meet us. I would say we play a huge role in recruiting when they come to our campus.

jackie (Oct 25, 2006 8:50:19 PM)

So what’s it like being married to the best young coach in America? As a football loving woman, you’re living my dream! LOL Seriously, though, do the media attention and long hours get tiring?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:52:00 PM)

Well, do you really want me to talk media????? LOL! The only time this role bothers me is after a loss and the criticism is so unfair and so hostile and ugly. These guys work so darn hard and no one really understands how hard. They don’t try to lose games and guess what??? IT IS REALLY HARD TO GO UNDEFEATED! I love what he does, I completely LOVE football, love these players and love the excitement sports brings to our lives.

THEBIGFISH (Oct 25, 2006 8:52:03 PM)

Who is the “class clown” among the team.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:52:49 PM)

I think Tony Joiner is a funny guy. This is something I don’t get to see much out of the players. I think all that clowning stuff goes on in the locker room and I’m not allowed in there.

cottongator321 (Oct 25, 2006 8:53:01 PM)

Who is more competitive? percy or timmy?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:53:48 PM)

Wow………I don’t know Percy as well yet. If he is more competitive than Timmy, everyone better look out. I don’t know if I’ve seen anyone more intense about winning than Timmy; except for maybe Urban.

FBGator (Oct 25, 2006 8:53:58 PM)

What do you enjoy about the Florida/ Georgia game/week the most?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:54:58 PM)

The atmosphere surrounding the whole week and at the stadium. Just the thousands of people milling around, ready to cheer for their team. Inside the stadium, seeing the split between the colors is amazing.

Franz Beard (Oct 25, 2006 8:54:59 PM)

Just a reminder folks … we can’t ask questions about recruits for the class of 2007

Franz Beard (Oct 25, 2006 8:55:03 PM)

it’s against NCAA rules

GATOR SEAN fernandina beach FL (Oct 25, 2006 8:55:05 PM)

Whats your favortie tradition about the University of Florida. Old or new it doesnt matter. Is it a song the band plays or is it a pre-game ritual. What your favorite Mrs. Meyer

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 8:55:31 PM)

Folks, we have a few minutes left and then we’re wrapping it up…

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:56:18 PM)

I love the Gator Walk; the hype those players get before walking into that stadium. The other thing I love is We Are The Boys. That is the neatest thing I’ve seen in a stadium, with everyone linking arms and swaying and singing. I get chills.

gatorinroswell (Oct 25, 2006 8:56:19 PM)

Who is your favorite opposing head coach’s wife

Muck (Oct 25, 2006 8:57:14 PM)

Who is Nathan’s and the girls favorite players?

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:57:14 PM)

LOL!!!! I guess Geri Spurrier. She has been nothing but so sweet and generous and kind everytime I see her. She has been thru so much; more than I, and she is still so sweet and so supportive of her husband. She’s great.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:58:31 PM)

Well, Nate wants to BE Timmy Tebow. He says his faves are Timmy, Chris Leak, Dallas Baker the Touchdown Maker, and Bubba C. Gigi has a special relationship with Brandon Siler; he treats her like a little sis. Nicki is 16 and too cool to have a favorite. Whoever the cutest ones are would be her favorites!!!

IAQGator (Oct 25, 2006 8:58:33 PM)

To end all uniform threads RIGHT NOW!!! What is your favorite home and away uniform combination? :)

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 8:58:41 PM)

Last question, folks…

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:07 PM)

Oh Gosh, you’re going to hate me but I really liked the ones we wore in the Georgia game last year!!!! What was wrong with those??????

g8terrn (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:13 PM)

Shelly, during the bye week last saturday, Coach and a few of his players helped out with a Childrens Cancer Benefit…Drew Miller, S. Rissler, Javi, Jason Watkins and C. Hetland were all there. My wife was a volunteer RN who cared for many of those kids…Well pls just pass on a very warm and heart felt thank you to both coach and all the guys who touched the kids lives last saturday!! It meant the world!! proud to be a gator!!

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:22 PM)

Thanks for joining us in chat so much, Shelley!!!

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:28 PM)

Parting words?

Johnagator (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:52 PM)

Thanks so much for giving us your time–no one else has ever done something like this–YOu Da Maam!

cottongator321 (Oct 25, 2006 8:59:55 PM)

thanks for rocking shelley

RacinGator (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:03 PM)

Thanks Ms Meyer

MartinisAt8 (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:14 PM)

Thank you for your time! Gators fans love you and your family!

THEBIGFISH (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:16 PM)

I BOW TO THEE!

GATOR SEAN fernandina beach FL (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:36 PM)

Thanks Shelley. GO GATORS!!!!! ps your daughtrt Nicki is beatuful and i can see where she got it from. and im 16 so dont get worried

GATORooski (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:40 PM)

GO GATORS!!! Beat them Dawgs!

crazychris (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:43 PM)

You rock…GO GATORS!!

Arkansas Gator (Oct 25, 2006 9:00:52 PM)

God bless our coach and his family!!!!

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 9:01:26 PM)

Thanks for joining us folks…

Raymond Hines (Solari) (Oct 25, 2006 9:01:29 PM)

It was a blast as always.

Shelley Meyer (Oct 25, 2006 9:01:37 PM)

Thanks so much for your support, all of you Gator Country folks. We are so enjoying Gainesville and we are so very happy to be GAtors!!!!! YOu all have been so great and thanks for your interest. I love chatting with you all and your questions are great. I do want the guys who run Gator country to know that I really appreciate all their support, too. Now let’s go to JAX and kick some fanny!!!! Go GATORS!!!!!! goodnight all!!!

Since 1997 Gator Country's been the most trusted authority on all Florida Gators sports. Join the most active Gators forums and get the real inside scoop on Florida football, recruiting, basketball, baseball and all University of Florida athletics!